Finger millet farmers get boost with launch of new variety in Busia

Orphaned crops which have long been neglected in most parts of the country have got a lifeline after the launch of improved finger millet variety for Western Kenya.

Orphan (or minor) crops are typically not traded internationally but which can play an important role in regional food security.

For various reasons, many of these crops have received little attention from crop breeders or other research institutions wishing to improve their productivity.

Sustainable agriculture

However, a partnership between the Centre for Behaviour Change and Communication (CBCC) and the International Maize and Wheat Improvement Center (CIMMYT) has introduced quality finger millet seeds in Busia County.

Meant to support smallholder farmers and promote sustainable agriculture in the region, the improved variety will go a long way to enhance trade and also contribute to food security.

According to CBCC’s Peter L’parnoi, the move will rely on Youth and Women Quality Centres (YWQC) to disseminate information and market linkages to finger millet farmers and consumers.

The YWQC will also serve as hubs for quality seed production and distribution and value addition and processing of finger millet products.

“We believe that introducing quality finger millet seeds can significantly improve the livelihoods of smallholder farmers in Busia County. We are committed to providing the necessary support to overcome the barriers to widespread use of finger millet and look forward to seeing the positive impact of this initiative,” L’parnoi said.

He said the initiative will be implemented under the Accelerated Variety Improvement and Seed Systems in Africa (AVISA) project, whose primary goal is to uplift the lives of smallholder farmers and millet consumers.

The project is designed to enhance access to high-quality seeds of improved varieties adapted to local conditions and preferences.

Finger millet, a staple food crop in Busia County, offers numerous benefits including nutritional value, climate resilience, biodiversity preservation, income diversification, and positive effects on soil health.